“Up North.” A local phrase synonymous with all of northern Michigan. Where it begins is up for debate. Many Metro-Detroiters point to the “Are You on the Right Road” Jesus landmark, or the Zilwaukee Bridge as being the starting point of the Up North gateway. Others deem Gaylord, or even as far north as the Mackinac Bridge, the beginning.
Either way, any Up North traveler will tell you that there is a subversive yet palpable shift in the atmosphere as you continue to travel north up I-75. The traffic clears, and the sky seems to open. As you gaze at the endless, towering rows of white pine trees that line the highway, conversation begins to flow, minds start to wander, and relaxation sets in.
Everyone has their favorite Up North destinations. Here, we share our favorites with you!
Favorite Towns
Petoskey
Ludington
Charlevoix
Traverse City
Bellaire
Frankfort
Empire
Leland/Fishtown
Sutton’s Bay
Wineries, Breweries, and Distilleries
Complete Guide to Northern Michigan Wineries
Traverse City Wineries
Say Cheers at These 5 Northern Michigan Breweries
Northern Michigan Beer
Distilleries in Michigan
Dining
Take a Self Guided Foodie Tour in Traverse City
19 Places to Eat on a Northern Michigan Road Trip
40 Best Things to Eat and Drink in Northern Michigan Right Now
35 Great Waterfront Restaurants to Visit in Northern Michigan
Things to Do
Northern Michigan Hiking Trails
Drive M-22 Scenic Route
Visit Fishtown
4 Scenic Places to Visit in the Northern Lower Peninsula
Take a Self Guided Foodie Tour in Traverse City
Top 10 Best Scenic Roads in Northern Michigan
Lake Michigan Lighthouses
Where to Find Petoskey Stones in Michigan
12 Things for Your Pure Ludington Vacation Bucket List
Old Mission Peninsula
Sleeping Bear Dunes
Detroit Mom Favorites
Petoskey: Detroit Moms’ Favorite Michigan Vacation Spots
Traverse City: Detroit Moms’ Favorite Michigan Vacation Spots
Mackinaw City: Detroit Moms’ Favorite Michigan Vacation Spots
Mackinac Island: Detroit Moms’ Favorite Michigan Vacation Spots
